Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI)

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Cary's Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) program is a nature-based initiative to manage stormwater runoff and improve water quality. GSI devices are designed to capture smaller volumes of rainwater at the source and infiltrate it directly into the ground, rather than releasing the treated runoff like larger, traditional Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs).

Cary encourages the use of GSI on new development and redevelopment projects and aims to lead by example by incorporating GSI measures for projects on town-owned properties and within the public right-of-way.

RAIN IT IN

Rain gardens, rain barrels and redirected downspouts are all examples of common green stormwater techniques that can be used on residential properties to help restore the natural movement of water. These measures slow, capture, or absorb rainfall to:

Reduce the volume of runoff leaving your property and entering the drainage system and local waterways
Reduce pollutants entering waterways and
Recharge groundwater.

Citizens can use these innovative, practical and effective measures to address stormwater runoff issues such as drainage, erosion, and flooding on their own property. Together, these practices can also have a positive and meaningful impact on stormwater runoff and water quality beyond property lines and within the local watershed.

View the Rain It In video series and browse the additional resources below for descriptions of common residential GSI measures, and consider which may be a good fit for your property. Every effort helps reduce stormwater runoff and maintain the quality of our waterways.

GSI GRANT PROGRAM

Cary is now offering a grant program that provides reimbursement of up to $5,000 to property owners who wish to install eligible GSI devices on their property and are willing to maintain the measure for at least 5 years.

Privately-owned properties that already have, or are located within a subdivision that has, an existing SCM may not be eligible for a Cary GSI Grant. If you are interested in Cary's GSI Grant Program, please complete a GSI Interest Form to learn more.

TYPES OF GSI

Rain Gardens

Rain Garden

A small rain garden can go a long way to reducing stormwater runoff, absorb pollutants, and address chronically wet areas while enhancing the appeal of your landscape. Properly designed rain gardens soak runoff into the ground within three days of a rainfall and will remain dry until the next rain event.

For more, including how to build one for your yard, check out this Rain Garden Manual.

Rain Barrels

Rain Barrel

Use a rain barrel to collect rainwater for plants and gardens and reduce stormwater runoff.

Place under downspouts that are cut to fit the height of the barrel. Create a stand of cinder blocks or other decorative stone to increase water pressure through gravity, helping the water flow from the barrel to your garden.

Need a barrel? Purchase one during Cary's Bin and Barrel Sale or build your own.

Check your HOA covenants for possible restrictions.

Cisterns

Cistern

Cisterns are large-scale rain barrels installed above or below ground that capture and store rainwater from roof downspouts. Unlike rain barrels that typically hold 55 gallons, cisterns have a capacity to hold hundreds of gallons of water.

Wondering if a cistern is right for your property? Consider the square footage of your roof, watering needs and cost. And don't forget to review your HOA covenants for any restrictions.

Grassed or Vegetated Swales

Impervious Surface Removal

Riparian Buffer Planting and Restoration

Disconnecting Downspouts

Permeable Pavers